Creamy Roasted Cauliflower Pasta (Print)

Silky pasta with roasted cauliflower, garlic sauce, parmesan, and fresh herbs for a comforting vegetarian dish.

# Components:

→ Vegetables

01 - 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into florets
02 - 6 cloves garlic, peeled
03 - 1 small yellow onion, roughly chopped

→ Pasta

04 - 12 oz pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne)

→ Dairy & Liquids

05 - 1/4 cup heavy cream
06 - 1/4 cup whole milk
07 - 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
08 - 2 tbsp olive oil

→ Seasonings & Garnish

09 - 1/2 tsp salt, plus more to taste
10 - 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
11 - 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
12 - 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or basil
13 - Zest of 1 lemon (optional)

# Directions:

01 - Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - Toss cauliflower florets, garlic cloves, and onion with olive oil, salt, and pepper; spread evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
03 - Roast for 25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until cauliflower is golden and tender.
04 - Cook pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions. Reserve 3/4 cup pasta water, then drain pasta.
05 - Transfer roasted cauliflower, garlic, and onion to blender. Add heavy cream, milk, parmesan, and half of reserved pasta water. Blend until smooth. Add remaining pasta water as needed to achieve creamy, pourable consistency.
06 - Return pasta to the pot. Pour sauce over pasta and toss to coat evenly. Warm gently over low heat for 1–2 minutes, adding extra pasta water to loosen sauce if desired.
07 - Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately, garnished with extra parmesan, chopped herbs, lemon zest, and red pepper flakes if using.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Roasted cauliflower and garlic create a naturally flavorful, creamy sauce without heavy additives.
  • Vegetarian and easily adaptable to vegan or gluten-free diets.
  • Quick to prepare with just 45 minutes total time.
  • Perfect balance of comforting creaminess and fresh herbaceous brightness.
02 -
  • Use a blender or food processor that can handle hot ingredients safely for a smooth sauce.
  • Reserve enough pasta water; the starch helps bind the sauce perfectly to the noodles.
  • If you prefer a thinner sauce, add the reserved pasta water a little at a time while blending.
  • Roast the vegetables evenly by flipping halfway through to avoid burning.
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